My Fab Fifties Life

Reading Wednesday

Book Review The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett

July 15, 2026

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Note – this is the final Reading Wednesday book review in this format. Next week we will have our 2025-2026 Reading Roundup. After that, all Reading Wednesday book reviews will move to our Instagram account. Please follow us on Instagram.

Kathryn Stockett

It’s been sixteen years since Stockett’s wildly successful novel The Help came out. Readers have been waiting for her next work. Let me tell you, The Calamity Club was worth the wait. One of my favorite books of the year, and absolutely mesmerizing on Audible. Here is my book review The Calamity Club by Kahtryn Stockett.

Mississippi 1933

The depression is raging, money is tight and unemployment is high. But there is a class of women whose husbands or sons are handling the finances. These wealthy women have no idea how bad it is and it’s about to get worse.

Birdie and Frances

Birdie travels to Oxford Mississippi to find her sister Frances in hopes of getting a loan from her wealthy brother-in-law’s family. Birdie’s family will lose their house if the back taxes amounting to $250 are not paid.

Birdie finds her spoiled little sister living in wealth, but something seems off. It doesn’t take long for the pieces to fall into place. Frances husband Rory Tart has been hiding their real financial situation.

Meg

In a parallel timeline of the story we meet Meg, a feisty and smart eleven year old orphan, living in poor conditions at the Oxford Orphanage. Frances volunteers, so Birdie does too while she is in town. Birdie is horrified by the conditions Meg is forced to endure. There is something bitter with the Orphanage Chairwoman Garnett. She is mean and nasty and harboring a deep secret of her own.

Cat Call

Charlie arrives on the doorstep of Idyewild, the historic home of the Tart family. Charlie is in search of Meg. Disheveled and desperate, she asks Birdie to help her find her daughter.

When Rory disapears, Birdie convinces Frances and Mrs. Tart to go in search of him, while she and Charlie cook up a scheme to raise money and save all of them from ruin. An unlikely sisterhood is formed, defying all the strict social norms of the era, in a risky business scenario to save families, homes and human beings.

Book Review The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett

One of the best books this year, I adored all the characters (and there are a lot of characters) in this novel. Both funny and sad The Calamity Club takes a deep dive into Mississippi and the south in the 1930’s. The novel touches on homosexuality, promiscuity, orphanages, infidelity, race and the southern hierarchy of wealth and poverty. But mostly this book is about a women’s drive to survive. Women’s health, still today, is poorly studied or properly diagnosed and in 1933 Mississippi it was downright appalling.

*****Five stars for The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett. One of my favorite books of the year.

See last week’s book review Strangers: A Memoire of Marriage by Belle Burden

COME BACK NEXT WEDNESDAY for our Ninth Annual (and final) Reading Roundup 2026. Our favorite reads of the past year.

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Hidden Gems of the PNW – Quincy Square Bremerton

July 10, 2026

Laureen

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Quincy Square is a newly opened gathering space in the heart of downtown Bremerton, where I spent my childhood. Bremerton, like many downtown areas has struggled recently to stay viable. But Quincy Square is making a difference. Here is my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Quincy Square Bremerton.

Honoring the Legend Quincy Jones

Beautiful Mural honoring Quincy Jones and his music

Quincy Square was created to celebrate community, culture, and the legacy of legendary music producer and composer Quincy Jones. Located along 4th Street in the heart of Bremerton, the pedestrian-friendly plaza was designed as a cultural hub. Residents and visitors can gather for concerts, festivals, art displays, and community events. Jones spent part of his youth in Bremerton and often credits the city as the place where he discovered his passion for music. (Quincy Square)

Many interactive things to do for young and old alike

Challenges of Revitalization

The development of Quincy Square transformed a section of downtown into an inviting public space featuring a permanent bandstand, public art installations, interpretive displays, seating areas, and music-inspired design elements. Envisioned as a key component of Bremerton’s Creative District, providing a central location for cultural programming and helping to strengthen connections between local businesses, artists, and community organizations. Public artworks, including a bronze sculpture and murals honoring Quincy Jones and others, contribute to the square’s unique identity.

Historic Roxy Theater anchors Quincy Square

Events

Recently Bremerton did an outstanding job using the space to gather the community for the FIFA World Cup games. Quincy Square was home to the Kitsap Fan Zone, with an opening ceremony concert from Mike Herrara of MXPX, another locally raised musician. My family and I really enjoyed this event, the concert and the soccer on the giant screen. It was free, family friendly and fun to see how the community embraced it.

Mike Herrara performs at the World Cup Fan Zone opening event

The permanent stage features numerous events through the year

Enjoying a microbrew at Dog Days Brewing in Quincy Square

Community

By combining public art, music, and community engagement, Quincy Square has become a symbol of downtown Bremerton’s revitalization and a welcoming destination that celebrates the city’s diverse cultural heritage. The square honors numerous Black leaders from Bremerton, trailblazers for equality in the region. Quincy Square is about community both past and future and shines as an example of what can happen when people come together.

Honoring some of Bremerton’s legends and Black leaders

Learn more about events in downtown Bremerton here. Bremerton is located on the Kitsap Peninsula, a one hour ride on the Washington State Ferry from Seattle, or a 30 min ride on the Kitsap Transit Fast Ferry from Seattle. Thirty minutes from Tacoma via Hwy 16.

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Quincy Square Bremerton

Thank you for reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Quincy Square Bremerton. I hope you will visit soon. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest Bainbridge Island.

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Reading Wednesday

Book Review Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden

July 8, 2026

Laureen

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Every woman should read this book – a cautionary tale about financial independence and marriage. Here is my book review Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden.

NOTE – At the end of July these book review posts will move from this blog to Instagram. Reading Wednesday will continue on most Wednesdays but on Instagram. Please follow our Instagram page here.

Betrayal

After twenty years of marriage, Belle’s husband suddenly admitted to an affair and announced he was leaving her. Belle was blindsided, having seen no red flags. She is left to manage during the pandemic their house and three children.

Strangers

Despite her initial despair and hopes that her husband would change his mind, Burden spends the next several years bouncing from depression to self reliance. She realizes this man she has spent twenty years with was a stranger to her, and his casual refusal to update their prenup should have been a red flag to her. Despite her wealthy upbringing, she has allowed all of her assets to be shared, even while allowing her husbands income to not. A long drawn out divorce takes a tremendous toll on her personal health, her family and even her friendships.

Her husband cuts off his relationship, claims he does not want shared custody and turns her life into a living hell during the divorce negotiations.

Cautionary Tale

I found the book to be well written and intriguing. Her story is believable, and a cautionary tale to women who cede all control of the family finances in marriage. Burden found herself not aware of the truth of the financial situation or prepared for the her precarious situation.

Some people have criticized this author because of her families wealth, but I found her truth and honesty of the demise of her marriage both fascinating, educational and heartbreaking.

****Four stars for Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden

Thank you for reading my book review Strangers: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden. See last week’s book review John of John by Douglas Stuart.

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Island Life -- North America Travel

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Bainbridge Island

See It Again or For the First Time

July 3, 2026

Laureen

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Location: Bainbridge Island Washington USA

A thirty-minute ferry ride from Seattle, or a thirty-minute drive from Bremerton, Beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington is a bit of a secret. Let me tell you about Hidden Gems of the PNW – Bainbridge Island.

Note – this article was updated in July 2026

Home to 25,000 full-time residents, the island is one of several that call the Puget Sound home, and is one of the most populated. Only ten miles long and five miles wide, Bainbridge is connected to the Kitsap Peninsula by a bridge over Agate Pass and to Seattle and King County by Washington State Ferry.

History of Beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington

For thousands of years the island was home to the Suquamish people who lived in nine separate villages around the island. The Vancouver expedition visited the island in 1792 and the Wilkes expedition in 1841. It was Wilkes who named the island after Commodore William Bainbridge.

In 1855 the Suquamish relinquished their claim to the island to the US government in exchange for reservation and fishing rights at Port Madison.

Japanese immigrants made their way to the island starting in 1888 and began much of the agriculture of the island, some of which remains today. But the Japanese were removed to internment camps during WWII…many never returned. A very beautiful Japanese American Exclusion Memorial is located just outside of the town of Winslow.

In 1991 the entire island was named the City of Bainbridge Island.

A Perfect Day Trip

Spending more than one day on beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington would be amazing, but if you only can get here for a day trip there is plenty you can do. We offer up some suggestions below. If you are walking from the ferry the village of Winslow has much to offer. And if you have a car there is even more to see and do further afield. Here are our suggestions:

Close to the Ferry

Marina and Ferry Terminal with Seattle Skyline in the distance

If you are driving, parking is usually available either on the main street called Winslow Way or on one of the side streets. But if you are walking from the ferry it’s a short five minute walk to the area known as Winslow.

SHOPPING

The Winslow area offers a wonderful variety of shops and restaurants including clothing and outdoor wear, jewelry and decorative finds, wine and tea and more. Two of my favorite shops are the incomparable Eagle Harbor Books and Town & Country Market. On my most recent trip I discovered Bainbridge Apothecary and Tea Shop and Danger a fabulous little gift shop.. I loved it!

DINING

You will never go hungry on Bainbridge Island. So many wonderful places to eat breakfast, lunch, or dinner. We recently tried two new restaurants on Bainbridge, Sweetwater Tavern (in the former location of Marche) and Proper Fish for their outstanding fish and chips. We also love Cafe Hitchcock. Streamliner Diner is great for breakfast, Blackbird Bakery has the best lemon blueberry scones and San Carlos is one of the best Mexican/Southwest Restaurants in the state of Washington.

WATERFRONT TRAIL

It’s not a long walk but the Bainbridge Waterfront Trail is a beautiful walk along both a paved path and a raised boardwalk. Definitely worth a few minutes of your time to enjoy the wind and salt in your hair, the thousands of masts and to hear the horn of the ferry in the distance.

MUSEUMS

The Bainbridge Historical Museum is worth a visit to learn the fascinating history of the island and it’s people. Learn more about it here.

We were extremely surprised and impressed with the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art. What a revelation to find such an outstanding museum in this small town. And it was FREE!! We spent about an hour here, enjoying both the permanent and temporary exhibits as well as marveling at the beautiful architecture of the building. A must visit when on the island. Learn more here.

Further Afield

Beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington is home to many, many parks including the beautiful Fay Bainbridge waterfront park and camp ground. See a full list of parks here. With a vehicle we also recommend;

JAPANESE AMERICAN EXCLUSION MEMORIAL – mentioned above

GRAND FOREST PARK – an astonishing variety of trails offered in this park located in the forested interior of the island. A beautiful spot.

BLOEDEL RESERVE – not to be missed. This 150 acre reserve is located on the historic property of Virginia and Prentice Bloedel. Today the spectacular gardens are astonishing to say the least and open to the public by tickets available online. Adults $20. Worth every penny.

Bloedel Reserve

LYNNWOOD CENTER – is a small neighborhood village with a handful of shops and restaurant worth a drive to enjoy. We recommend The Treehouse Cafe.

BAINBRIDGE BREWING – always in search of microbrew, we found it on Bainbridge. Bainbridge Brewing has it’s brewing headquarters and a tasting room on the interior of island and also has a tasting room in Winslow.

PIA THE PEACEKEEPER – one of several Thomas Dambo trolls in the Pacific Northwest (see the full list here) Is a darling 18 foot tall troll easily accessible and definitely worth a visit.

FAYE BAINBRIDGE PARK – spectacular views with picnic, camping and walking trails this is a not to miss park on the island.

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Bainbridge Island

Worth a day or a weekend, beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington will sooth your senses – forest bathe in the green forests, inhale the salty air from the multiple waterfront locations, relax. Experience a friendly neighborhood island of socially active residents who make nature, art and sustainability a priority on their island. Take it down a notch on beautiful Bainbridge Island Washington. I’ll see you there.

See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Foothills Trail here.

This article is also featured on GPSmyCity. To download this article for offline reading or create a self-guided walking tour to visit the attractions highlighted in this article, go to Walking Tours and Articles in Bainbridge Island.

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Reading Wednesday

Book Review John of John by Douglas Stuart

July 1, 2026

Laureen

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I listened to this novel on Audible and it was absolutely poetic. One of my favorite books of the year. Here is my book review John of John by Douglas Stuart.

Remote Isle of Harris, Scotland

After finishing Art School, Cal returns home to the barren croft where he was raised by his father. This is the last place Cal wants to be, a dying and hopeless island stuck in time. Cal has hidden his sexuality from his father, a leader in the Presbyterian Church, sheep farmer and weaver. The two cannot see eye to eye on much particularly as Cal explores his individuality.

Living with his father and outspoken grandmother in his tiny childhood home, Cal feels as stuck as everyone else as this fragile community, it’s old ways and traditions, disintegrates.

Truth

The narrative in this book, so beautifully written, is above all else, about truth. A deep thread running through the novel is how difficult it can be, particularly in a small cutoff place, to become who you were meant to be. On this barren island old ways die hard. Religion is rigid. One of the last places where Gaelic is spoken and subsistence farming continues. How to be true to yourself when life is expected to only be a one certain way?

Cal and his father clash over most things. But Cal has returned to the island because his father has told him his grandmother is ill. But on arrival he finds his grandmother in fine health. And so he begins to unravel the real reasons he has been called home. The truth.

Emotional

The prose of this novel are emotional and suspenseful and full of secrets. It is a story of family, hard work, religion and the truth of hiding from your true sexuality. John of John has vividly written characters and scenery and this book played out like a movie in my head. It is one of the most beautifully written books I have read in years. I have read Stuart’s Shuggie Bain and Young Mungo, but this one is hands down my favorite. It damn well better win the Booker.

Thank you for reading my book review John of John by Douglas Stuart.

*****Five stars for John of John by Douglas Stuart.

See last week’s book review Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth. We are always grateful for your likes, comments, pins and shares. Thank you.

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At Home -- North America Travel

Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Foothills Trail

June 26, 2026

Laureen

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Location: Pierce County Washington USA

The incredible 22 mile Foothills Trail is a Pierce County secret and one of my favorite hidden gems. Cyclists, walkers, runners, and people of all ages enjoy this beautiful paved trail in South Pierce County. Let’s talk about Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Foothills Trail.

The new bridge connecting South Prairie to Buckley and Enumclaw

History

In the late 1800’s the Northern Pacific Railway laid the first tracks to access rich coal and sandstone resources at the base of the Cascades. This corridor was critical to early settlement and connecting Tacoma to Ellensburg. In 1982 Burlington Northern abandoned the tracks and shortly thereafter the Foothills Trail Coalition was formed by local citizens.

Pierce County formerly adopted the trail project in 1990 and has continued to make improvements to the trail that begins in Puyallup. Until 2024 the trail ended at South Prairie. But in 2024 the Buckley Bridge was completed connecting the Pierce County trail to Enumclaw in King County.

One of My Favorite Paved Trails

For many years this trail was a favorite of mine as a cyclist. It is well maintained, has multiple parking and restroom facilities throughout the 22 miles, and has stunning nature and Mount Rainier views. You will see birds, and other wildlife as well as wildflowers and forests. Although I am currently not cycling, the Foothills Trail is also a great place to run, walk your dog, stroll with the family or just picnic along the Carbon River. Walkers should consider parking in Orting (check out their Saturday Farmers Market) where the Rainier views are the best. About a one mile walk from the Orting Railroad Depot you will come to the beautiful raging Carbon River.

The Foothills Trail is a 12-foot wide non-motorized asphalt trail / linear park suitable for bicycles, walking, in-line skates, and wheelchairs. It also has a soft shoulder path for equestrians.

The view of Mount Rainier from the Puyallup end of the trail

Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Foothills Trail

There are plans to continue the trail east from Enumclaw. Additional plans will hopefully come to fruition to continue the trail from Puyallup to connect with the Interurban Trail in Auburn and Kent. This could create a wonderful cycling corridor for commuters in the future. A perfect fit for the beautiful Pacific Northwest.

Thank you or reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – The Foothills Trail. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Kitsap Forest Theater. We are always grateful for your shares and pins and comments. Thank you.

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Reading Wednesday

Book Review Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth

June 24, 2026

Laureen

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What happens when Australia’s youngest convicted murderer grows up to be a cantankerous old woman in a quiet Melbourne neighborhood? Hepworth’s wonderful novel is full of engaging characters and laugh out loud predicaments. Here is my book review Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth.

A Quiet Suburban Life

After a lifetime of misfortune, abuse, bad luck and misunderstanding, Elise is settled in to her quiet Melbourne neighborhood. She likes most of her neighbors, except the pesky 7 year old Persephone and her next door neighbor Ishaan and his annoying dog Nugget. She keeps to herself except for her one friend and only friend Daphne.

More Bad Luck

But when Ishaan turns up dead, and the police start to dig, Elise’s true identity gets out. She once again finds herself a suspect in a murder. Because Elise is actually Mabel Waller – Mad Mabel, Australia’s youngest convicted killer.

The story and the characters in the neighborhood are full of both funny and sad events. Elise (Mabel) agrees to tell her story to some young vloggers, and through the telling we learn the astonishing details of Mabel’s life. An abusive narcissistic father, school bullies, a teacher-sexual abuser and a life of loneliness, Mabel has a surprising story to tell.

And through it all she learns to love the inquisitive 7 year old Persephone, Nugget the dog and see her neighbors for the kind and supportive people they are. Some of the relationships she has with characters in the novel will surprise the reader, as we learn the depth of Mabel’s loneliness and regret.

Book Review Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth

This was one of my favorite books I’ve read this year. Despite much of it’s sad content, it made me feel happy and hopeful for humanity.

*****Five stars for Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth. See last week’s book review Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke. Thank you for reading my book review Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth. We are grateful for your comments, pins and shares.

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At Home -- North America Travel

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Kitsap Forest Theater

June 19, 2026

Laureen

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One of the most remarkable and beloved hidden gems on the Kitsap Peninsula, the Kitsap Forest Theater is worth a drive from anyway in the Pacific Northwest. It’s time to visit for the first time or come back again. If you grew up in this area like I did, you probably came as a child. Let me remind you about this amazing Hidden Gems of the PNW – Kitsap Forest Theater.

Beautiful setting for an open air theater

History

The Kitsap Forest Theater, tucked within a 460-acre Rhododendron Preserve in Bremerton, WA, is one of the oldest nonprofit community theater groups in the nation. Founded in 1923 by The Mountaineers club, it is famous for its open-air stage, terraced forest seating, and natural forest spotlights

Key Milestones in its History

1916: Early mountaineers began performing short plays and pantomimes. Actors moved from clearing to clearing with the audience trailing behind.
1923: The Mountaineers Players officially formed with a rehearsed production of Robin of Sherwood. This launched a tradition of unbroken spring performances that continues to this day.
1926: Designed by William C. Darling, the permanent outdoor amphitheater was built. The venue is heavily intertwined with the surrounding nature; the “roof” is the open sky, the wings are made of cedar bark and moss, and natural light filters through the tree canopy.
1928-1930s: The troupe exploded in popularity following acclaimed productions like Alice in Wonderland, prompting the Seattle Chamber of Commerce to request special public showings.
1943-1946: The only interruption in the theater’s history occurred during World War II, when productions were temporarily suspended.
2007: The theater expanded its schedule to include a summer production alongside its traditional spring show, allowing more families to enjoy the venue.
Today: Now operating under The Mountaineers Players, the organization puts on several major family-friendly musical productions each season. Patrons reach the stage by embarking on a scenic, quarter-mile hike through the woods.

I remember my family enjoying Brigadoon when I was a kid. And then I brought my kids to see Sound of Music and more when they were young.

Frozen

The opening show for the 2026 season was Frozen. I spent a wonderful Sunday afternoon with my sister, my nieces and my great nieces enjoying an outstanding production. The little girls in our party loved the show and they knew all the songs.

It’s a quarter mile walk from the parking lot to the amphitheater

Frozen set and special effects were amazing

Watching a quality production, surrounded by forests with the open sky above is a treat in itself. But there is so much more. Exceptional performances by volunteer actors, fun and colorful sets, and outstanding costumes and special effects. Each of these things making the production well worth the ticket price of $22 for adults.

After more than 100 years, the Kitsap Forest Theater is one of the oldest non-profit community theaters in the nation. The dedication and commitment it takes to keep this quality theater going is amazing. You really should check it out.

What’s Next?

Frozen’s run ended on June 14th. But the fun continues through the summer with two more great shows so you should get your tickets soon. Coming up;

Oliver (another one of my favorites) will run July 25, 26, August 1, 2, 8, 9, 15, 16; 2026 – 2:00 pm

Miss Holmes will run September 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 19, 20; 2026 – 2:00 pm

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Kitsap Forest Theater

It’s time to make a trip to Kitsap Forest Theater…for the first time or to reminisce from your childhood. Advance tickets are available online. A great non-profit, family friendly, nature loving arts organization right in your own backyard. See it again, or for the very first time.

The acoustics in the forest were surprisingly good

Thanks for reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Kitsap Forest Theater. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Old Town Bellevue here. Come back next week for more fun and fabulous Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest.

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Reading Wednesday

Book Review Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke

June 17, 2026

Laureen

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At a time in my life when I have been increasingly troubled by much of the fake and AI generated garbage that now makes up so much of social media – in drops this book. A deeply disturbing debut novel of a social media influencer and her double personality. Here is my book review Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke.

Performance

I have long complained about travel influencers and the flawless portrayals of destinations around the world. My first hand experience knows how fake most of that is. I remember standing in Santorini Greece hoping to get a photo. But instead, waiting for an idiot influencer in a long red dress to get her windblown photo as she stood dangerously close to the edge. Such an absurd and rude performance.

Yesteryear reminded me of how hard it is to see the truth on Social Media. And the protagonist in this book, Natalie Heller Mills, is a perfectly written narcissist reminiscent of Amy Dunne in Gone Girl. Her crafted online performance is in direct contrast to her pejorative offline voice. Her life becomes one big performance.

Yesteryear Ranch

Natalie and her husband Caleb, along with their five children lead what appears to be a perfect life at Yesteryear Ranch. Growing their food organically, homeschooling the children and living without many modern conveniences, Natalie and Yesteryear Ranch become an internet sensation. Until dirty little secrets start to be revealed…pesticides on the farm, hidden modern appliances, Natalie’s lack of interest in her own children, and her disintegrating marriage.

1855

When Natalie wakes up one morning to find herself transported to a cold cabin in 1855 she believes she has been kidnapped. No running water, no electricity. And who are these children? These are not her children. When she tries to escape, she is seriously injured. But Caleb is here…older and warn down. Is it Caleb?

Book Review Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke

Some people are gonna love this book and others will not. This novel looks closely at our world, through the layers of social media’s influence on society. Additionally through narcissism and mental illness and through powerful wealthy families and American Christian values. It hits very close to home in current American politics, with narcissistic American leaders and right-wing Christian influence. Yesteryear is a deep dive into how social media has degraded societies communication skills, attention span and ability to recognize fraud from reality.

Burke has written a protagonist who will not be forgotten. Natalie Heller Mills will be remembered for her ruthless and desperate desire to appear to be someone she is not. A movie is coming starring Anne Hathaway.

Thank you for reading my book review Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke.

*****Five stars for Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke. See last week’s book review Kin by Tayari Jones.

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At Home -- North America Travel

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Old Town Bellevue

June 12, 2026

Laureen

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Location: Bellevue Washington USA

Many decades ago I lived in Bellevue and in Issaquah, both towns just east of Seattle. At that time shopping excursions happened at Bellevue Square, the first regional shopping mall in the Pacific Northwest opened in 1946. I never went into “Old Town” because it just wasn’t the cool place to be. But times have changed haven’t they? I love a good old town in every city I visit. So let me tell you about the Hidden Gems of the PNW – Old Town Bellevue.

History of Bellevue’s Old Town

Pioneers like William Meydenbauer and Aaron Mercer filed the first land claims in 1863. The area was initially a logging settlement. Once the trees were cleared, the rich soil was utilized for farming. By 1900 Bellevue became known for its berry and vegetable farms, largely cultivated by Japanese immigrant families. During this time, Old Main Street functioned as the central commercial hub for farmers and locals. But after WWII internment few Japanese families returned to Bellevue.

The opening of the first Lake Washington floating bridge in 1940 caused a massive population surge. This rapid suburban growth was marked by the opening of Bellevue Square in 1946 and the official incorporation of the city in 1953. In the decades that followed Interstate 405 cut through Bellevue in 1967 and the city expanded to become a tech and business center.

Meanwhile “Old Town” organically remained, slowly becoming a pedestrian friendly, restaurant intensive shopping area flanked to the North by the beautiful Downtown Park.

Main Street

My two-day visit to Old Town stretched the boundaries of what is the actual Old Town as I explored the old Main Street from Lake Washington’s sparkling Meydenbauer Park two miles east to the gorgeous (and free) Bellevue Botanic Gardens.

Bellevue Botanical Gardens

Only recently did I become aware of this garden, hidden right in the Bellevue metropolis. Seeing this garden was the catalyst for my visit to Bellevue. Beautifully laid out wandering paths make this 53 acre garden feel so much larger.

The original 25 acres was bequeathed to the city of Bellevue by Cal and Harriot Short who had spent 25 years cultivating the garden. The garden has been expanded twice and is one of the the finest I’ve seen in the Pacific Northwest. Remarkably it is free and open 365 days a year with classes and events for all ages. A visit to the Bellevue Botanical Gardens is a must.

Old Town Shops

When the Shorts lived on the property where the Botanical Gardens now are, it would have been a straight shot down Main Street to Old town. Today you need to meander a bit because Interstate 405 cuts right through Main Street.

I found street parking and just wandered in and out of some of the unique shops in Old Town. Beautiful housewares, clothing, cards, chocolate, jewelry and even Glassy Baby’s are available in Old Town. It’s a lovely place to stroll, grab a coffee or a glass of wine and indulge in one of the Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest.

Dining

I enjoyed two meals while in Old Town and both were spectacular. My son came and met me for dinner at Bis on Main, a highly rated fine dining restaurant. We enjoyed an excellent Caesar Salad and French Onion Soup. My son loved his Black Cod and I enjoyed a giant Pork Chop. Service was great too. I highly recommend Bis on Main.

Dinner with my first born is always a treat, especially at Bis on Main

I woke up to a beautiful sunny and quiet Sunday morning in Old Town so I took a stroll and stumbled into Gilbert’s on Main. Operating as Bellevue’s Deli for 26 years, the sandwich menu is insane! But for breakfast I had to have the Lox and Bagel Platter…and it was indeed a platter. With coffee it kept me full for the rest of the day. Check out Gilbert’s on Main.

Definitely try the Lox and Bagel Platter at Gilbert’s on Main

Parks

Downtown Park is a real jewel, just two blocks off main. Tucked between Old Town to the south and Bellevue Square to the North, this beautiful, green, twenty acre park is Bellevue’s gathering place. The people of Bellevue come to run, walk, and play. Multiple events take place in this park and the water feature is stunning and such a surprise.

A large Eid Festival was happening in Downtown Park

Downtown Park has a great running/walking track

Meydenbauer Park fronts Lake Washington at the far west end of Main Street but an easy walk. This stunning park provides visitors exceptional access to the lake and is very popular on sunny summer days. You also can enjoy views of the lake and of the gorgeous lakefront homes and real estate that surround it.

Hidden Gems of the PNW – Old Town Bellevue

Bellevue Old Town could easily be a day trip from anywhere in the Puget Sound region, but there are also multiple hotels available. I spent one night at the comfortable AC Marriott Bonvoy, just a couple blocks off Main.

Visitors coming to Seattle should consider a day in Bellevue as well as in some of the other gems of East King County like Issaquah, Fall City and Snoqualmie. Extend your Seattle stay to enjoy the surrounding area full of history, recreation, dining, shopping and so much beauty.

Thank you for reading my post Hidden Gems of the PNW – Old Town Bellevue. See last week’s post Hidden Gems of the Pacific Northwest – The Posh Pescatarian.

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